All entries for November 2007

University wastes energy

As I go about my day on campus I am constantly reminded by an abundance of posters and handouts that we should cut down on our energy consumption to preserve the environment, not only for ourselves but for others around the globe and for generations to come. I think most people would agree that it has now become almost trendy, fashionable perhaps to be labelled as a 'green' person. I can imagine that for some this would encourage a more environmentally friendly lifestyle - brilliant. For others, peace of mind prevails and has a similar effect.

It is possible to 'play your part' in the global battle against climate change by changing your lifestyle, but there is the common consensus that, what I do won't make much difference at all. However, collectively it is possible to make a change, as a community, and this is something that can be done for example by organisations such as the University of Warwick. One might imagine then, an institution such as the University of Warwick may wish to take this notion on board, aiming to reduce its energy consumption. 

This is not what I see. The amount of energy needed to run five water fountains outside the mathematics dept. doesn't bear thinking about. The Warwick Arts Centre is flood lit by night with fancy colours, as is an elevator shaft opposite the Warwick Manafactuing Group. These all may be pleasing to the eye, but are they necessary? I am aware that these views are very kill-joy, but is it not time we all started to think about the people who will really be affected by climate change, namely those living in undeveloped counties, instead of creating pointless exhibits, on show purely for our want of aesthetically pleasing surroudings? The icing on the cake came as I walked past a perfectly lit seating area (ok that is sensible) outside the humanities building, but the seats had implanted in them, ultraviolet lights... lighting up the floor, what is going on? Has this university completely forgotten what it should be stanting for as a leading educational institution in this country?

: 12 Nov 2007 23:41 |  Tags: Energy Wasting |  Comments (0) |  Close comments |  Report a problem

Caps

This is just for all the people who laughed at my cap today.

I would just like to add that this was no ordinary cap, if you google, "Ilkley Moore Bar T'at" you will see what I mean. This is of course besides the point. I am entitled to wear whatever I please, whenever I think suitable, like it or lump it, it is called freedom of choice... you know who you are!!

In addition to this I would just like to emphasise a particular point I made to Andy earlier on today in "Standard Model". I can take the cap off whenever I like, unfortunately the same isn't true for all your ugly mugs, sorry.

Hope you all have a nice weekend, I will continue to keep my head nice and toasty, whilst you guys follow the conga of trendiness.

G'day

: 10 Nov 2007 02:18 |  Tags: Caps |  Comments (2) |  Close comments |  Report a problem